MVA Expands Economic Development & Incentives Group, Appoints Beth Buckner as Head
Moore & Van Allen (MVA) is pleased to announce that Elizabeth “Beth” A. Buckner has been named Head of the firm’s Economic Development & Incentives Group. This leadership role reflects MVA’s continued commitment to helping clients achieve successful expansions and relocations through strategic incentive structuring and economic development solutions.
About Beth Buckner
Buckner brings extensive experience in economic development, incentive structuring and state and local taxation. As a tax attorney, Beth understands, evaluates and explains economic incentives and tax-regimes of states and localities, suggesting ways to structure the receipt of economic incentives in a tax-efficient manner. She has advised clients on expansions and relocations, helping them secure competitive incentive packages tied to significant investment. Beth has long been part of MVA’s work in this area, and her appointment as Head of the Economic Development & Incentives Group focuses her efforts in this increasingly important practice area for the firm’s clients.
A Vibrant Practice with Deep Roots
MVA’s Economic Development & Incentives practice has been a cornerstone of the firm for four decades, guiding companies through complex growth decisions across 36 states and provinces. The team has secured multiple billions in incentives for clients, supporting transformative projects that drive job creation and investment.
This success is the result of a collaborative effort led by experienced professionals, in addition to Beth Buckner, including Billy Moore, Walter Price, Beth Friedrich and Daniel Young, who have each played integral roles in building and sustaining the practice’s reputation for excellence.
- William “Billy” H. Moore Jr., Head of Tax and Co-Head of the Corporate team, has negotiated incentive packages in over 30 states, securing more than $3.5 billion for clients. His work spans Fortune 500 companies, professional sports organizations, and major employers. In recognition of his contributions, Billy received the Order of the Palmetto, South Carolina’s highest civilian honor, in 2024.
- Walter S. Price, Managing Director and Head of Public Affairs, brings over 25 years of experience in government relations and public affairs. His leadership roles at major financial institutions and his strategic counsel on corporate reputation and stakeholder engagement make him an invaluable resource for clients navigating regulatory and political landscapes.
- Beth Friedrich adds more than a decade of government and economic development experience, including key roles in North Carolina’s legislative and commerce offices. She specializes in due diligence, incentive strategies, and legislative engagement, guiding projects from site selection through compliance.
- Daniel Young, former Executive Director of South Carolina’s Coordinating Council for Economic Development, offers unmatched expertise in incentive negotiations and workforce development. His leadership helped secure billions in investment and thousands of jobs for the state, including major automotive and energy projects.
By combining deep economic development expertise with multidisciplinary insight, MVA’s Economic Development & Incentives Group helps clients maximize incentives, support community growth, and achieve long-term success in today's competitive landscape.